In the "Binaural Tone" panel, you'll see a dropdown for "Waveform." This setting controls the *timbre* or *character* of the sound you hear.
The binaural beat effect (e.g., 10 Hz) will work with *any* waveform. The choice is about your personal preference and what you find most pleasant.
The 4 Waveform Types
Here’s what each one sounds like and what it's good for.
1. Sine Wave
A sine wave is the "purest" sound possible. It has no "harmonics" or "overtones"—it is just a single, fundamental frequency.
- Sounds like: A tuning fork, a gentle "ooo" sound, a test tone.
- Best For: Sleep, deep meditation, or any time you want the tone to be as subtle and "medical" as possible. It's the most relaxing and least obtrusive.
2. Square Wave
A square wave sounds "buzzy" and "hollow." It's created by a voltage instantly switching "on" and "off." It is rich in "odd" harmonics.
- Sounds like: An old 8-bit video game, a clarinet, a "digital" or "robotic" buzz.
- Best For: More "intense" or "stimulating" sessions. Some find the harsh, digital texture "cuts through" and is more energizing for Gamma (40 Hz) focus sessions.
3. Sawtooth Wave
A sawtooth wave is the richest and "brightest" of the set. It contains *all* harmonics (both even and odd).
- Sounds like: A synthesizer, a string orchestra, a "buzzy" and "rich" sound.
- Best For: Creative sessions (Theta) or pairing with music. Because it's so harmonically rich, it can feel more "musical" and "inspiring" than a pure sine wave.
4. Triangle Wave
A triangle wave is the "middle ground" between a Sine and a Square wave. It sounds brighter than a Sine wave but much softer than a Square wave.
- Sounds like: A flute, a "softer" 8-bit video game sound.
- Best For: A good "all-purpose" choice if you find Sine *too* boring but Square *too* harsh. It's great for Alpha (10 Hz) focus.
The Takeaway: 90% of the time, Sine is what you want. It's the cleanest and most relaxing. But don't be afraid to try Sawtooth for a creativity session or Triangle for a study session to see if you prefer the richer texture.